We call our program  B A S I C  because it provides an excellent foundation and prepares you for success as a custom framer. Whether you're new to the custom framing industry, or just feel the need for a brush-up, the WDA's Instructional Program for Picture Framers is your key to success in this rapidly-growing industry. We've designed the five modules to address specific aspects of custom framing:

Business

Here you'll learn the framework of marketing and gain a working knowledge of basic business practices as related to managing a custom framing store or department.

Art & Design

Everyone's favorite. And oh-so-important to your success. You'll take a look at art history and the various art forms as well as the elements of design, including color and texture. Then you'll explore current trends in art and see how new colors, textures, and finishes in mats and mouldings can help you design framing that sells.

Sales

Good presentation skills are a key to successful selling. Learn how to use product knowledge and how to meet objections (especially on pricing) to sell your best framing designs.

Industry

As part of an exciting and rapidly-growing industry, you'll get a fresh perspective on the role your distributor plays in serving you and your customers. Find out about mat boards, mouldings, manufacturers, magazines, trade associations and more.

Craft

Yes, you can acquire the technical skills that allow you to succeed as a craftsperson in this industry. You'll learn to cut straight-lined mats--including doubles and triples, title mats, multi-opening mats, inlays, and V-grooves; frame cutting and joining; glass cutting; the why's and when's of needlework stretching or blocking; touch up techniques; the how-to's of fitting; the tools of the trade; equipment maintenance; Plus LOTS of tips to ensure maximum performance.

Wholesale Distributors Association (WDA) Strength in numbers, services and products. 1-800-WDA-7719 Schedule Our  B A S I C   Instructional Program for Framers is offered at our regional distribution centers. Call your local Distributor for class schedules. See the listings elsewhere on this page for locations and phone numbers. General Information Tuition: $599.00 per person, this includes all materials and tools. Most credit cards are accepted. Confirmation: If you have not received a confirmation letter, please call your distribution center at least three days before the seminar to ensure enrollment. Cancellations and Refunds: Your tuition is fully refundable if you cancel three (3) days or more business days before your seminar. If you cancel later, you will be charged a $50.00, cancellation fee and the balance will be refunded. If you do not cancel and do not attend, you will be charged the full fee. Seminar Hours: The seminar will begin promptly. Please call WDA distribution center for arrival time. Lunch is on your own. The seminar concludes at 5:00 Monday through Thursday, and 1:00 pm on Friday. Class Size: Class size is limited to ensure optimal interaction between instructors and participants. What to Bring: A piece of paper art (photo, poster, print or original) to frame in class. Any size up to 11" x 14" acceptable.

WDA MEMBERS OFFERING 5 DAY BASIC COURSES WDA / Alabama Cash Moulding Sales of Alabama (800) 553-2274 (205) 942-1225 (FAX) WDA / Michigan TC Moulding (800) 632-4842 (248) 588-2333 (800) 735-0014 (FAX) WDA / Minnesota TC Moulding (800) 735-3025 (651) 636-6646 (800) 735-0860 (FAX) Other members may be offering  B A S I C   and one day classes through out the year. Call 1-800-WDA-7719 to see if a location near you may be participating. Dates and times may change by location. Call at least two weeks in advance for registration purposes. Class instructors will advise you on what materials you should bring upon registration.

Here are some student comments about
B A S I C

"Hands -on experience was fantastic." "This entire program has certainly been worth the time. The information has been useful and can be implemented in day-to day-, on the job situations."

"Fabulous learning experience." " I expect that our success over the next few years will be based on the idea the we do the basics the best....this class was the start, the groundwork." "Overall, a most wonderful course. Would certainly recommend to new and experienced framers because of the professionalism and the environment."

You've Earned It!

In recognition of the time and effort you give to completing the projects assigned in  B A S I C , we award our Certificate of Merit and invite you to join us for dinner one evening as our guest. This not only provides you with an informal means of communicating with your instructors, but offers an excellent opportunity for you to network with other students in the class.

Follow-up Services:

Participants in the  B A S I C  Instructional Program for Framers can count on their WDA distribution center for post-training support. Just call.

What's Next?

As your store or department grows, you can count on the WDA to give you the training you'll need. STUDIO 2003...a series of workshops designed to enhance the technical skills of the custom framer in a variety of areas. Call for more information.